Mail Online: Q&A with actor James D’Arcy

The actor, 37, on channelling Johnny Depp, catching up with his mates and his Madonna moment

Tell us about the bounder you play in the ITV period drama The Making of a Lady…

He’s an outsider who’s been disinherited by his family – so he tries to alter his fate in ways that aren’t legal or moral. On the plus side, he’s very good at badminton!

Would you rather be cast as a baddie or a goodie?

I’d rather be cast! I have a lot of friends who are good actors but can’t get work and I’m incredibly grateful that really amazing parts keep coming my way.

What’s next career wise?

I play multiple roles [all the cast do] in the movie Cloud Atlas. The film is crazy, bananas, wonderful. I’ll never be involved in anything like it again. And then [the role of] Anthony Perkins in Hitchcock [both to be released in February 2013].

Ever had a plan B?

No. I was at a barbecue aged 17, when a man in his 40s asked what I wanted to be. When I said “an actor”, he said, “Yes, I acted at school”. What he meant was, “Until I cast such childish things aside”. I vowed never to be the Bloke At The Barbie.

Dream dinner party guests?

My friends, because my nomadic existence means I don’t get to see them often enough.

Ever worry about unemployment?

No. I like everything about acting. Including the unemployment. I’ve got lots of other things to do such as seeing my friends, hanging out with my cousin’s kids who I love, or writing. My life is full, regardless.

Any secrets?

Oh yes. But if I told you, they wouldn’t be secrets. Same applies to my love life.

How about your best kiss?

Let’s just say the first one, because it opened up a new world. Her name was Louise Jerome, we were both 12 years old. I’m rather mortified that my mum is going to read this.

Your mum worked as a nurse to raise you and your sister after your dad died. Are you close?

Yes, she loves visiting me on location when I’m filming. If it’s in Indonesia, she’s booking flights. If it’s Romania…not so much!

Do you enjoy watching yourself?

Apart from Cloud Atlas, I haven’t seen myself on screen for years. In my mind’s eye I’m channelling Johnny Depp. Why spoil it?

Star-struck moment?

Meeting Madonna when I played Edward VIII in W.E. I discovered that she’s surprisingly funny and nice.